Checklist to Reduce Your Risk of Falling at Home
FLOORS
Keep floors free from clutter
Remove scatter/throw rugs
Place non-skied treads or double-sided tape under area rugs
Wipe up spills immediately
Make sure floors are not slippery
Move furniture to make walking paths clear
Coil or tape cords and wires next to the wall or add additional outlets
HALLWAYS AND STAIRS
Remove clutter
Use handrails while taking the stairs
Place non-skid treads
Use bright reflective tape to mark the edge of the stairs
Add better lighting – overhead at top and bottom of stairs
Fix loose or uneven steps
Put in light switches that flow at top and bottom of stairs
Make sure carpet is firmly attached to every step
Fix loose or broken handrails
Make sure handrails are on both sides of stairs and are long as the stairs
LIGHTING
Replace dim, burned out or glaring lights with bright, soft white bulbs
Use night lights, especially on path from bed to bathroom
Make sure lights are easy to turn on and off
Keep a flashlight readily available and one is near your bed
Make sure your flashlight s are charged
Place lamp closed to bed and easy to reach
BATHROOM
Use a raised toilet seat and safety frame
Set water temperature at 120 degrees or less
Place non-skid adhesive strips or mats in the tub or shower
Use liquid soap or soap on a rope
Have grab bars next to toilet and in the tub or shower
Use a tub/shower seat
KITCHEN
Move items you use often to lower shelves, about waist level
Only use step stool, if you must, and get one with a bar to hold on to
Never use a chair as a step stool.
OTHER
Select furniture with armrests for support in getting up and down
Keep phones in easy reach
Move object to be picked up closer to something sturdy to hold on to before picking it up
Keep emergency numbers in large print near each phone
Put a phone near the floor in case you fall and can’t get up
Wear an alarm device that will bring help in case you fall and can’t get up
YOU
Begin a regular exercise program
Review your medicines with your health care providers
Have your vision and hearing checked
Wear shoes both inside and outside the house
Avoid wearing floppy slippers of long robes
Consult your health care provider about any dizziness or weakness
Avoid sitting on low furniture or chairs without arms
Use mobility aids such as canes, walkers, scooters or wheelchairs
Share this checklist with your family and other caregivers
FOR MOR INFORMATION CONTACT
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
770-488-1506